![]() You could refinish the piece to improve its look, but any antique dealer would tell you that it would greatly devalue the item because it would no longer be in its original condition. Its finish may be worn, but it is still as detailed as it was when it was first crafted. You might ask, “What's wrong with a little enhancement? It’s just an improvement….” For something to be rare, it needs to be in its original condition. Natural untreated sapphires are far more uncommon and valuable than treated and chemically altered stones. Approximately only 0.5 - 1% of the sapphires discovered are of gem quality without treatment. The key term is “untreated,” meaning a sapphire is natural (not lab created) and has not been subject to any chemical or heat treatments. However, “natural” does not mean the sapphire has not undergone any alterations. A sapphire can be listed as “natural” simply because it is not lab created. These processes may increase the stone’s beauty, but not its value. Very low grade sapphires are also treated with chemicals to alter their color, transforming stones that would not be market grade into saleable pieces. ![]() Most people are unaware that almost all sapphires are heated at extremely high temperatures to "enhance" their color and clarity. A gem-quality untreated sapphire or ruby is exceptional because of its natural color and clarity. For example, you can buy black corundum in the form of emery sandpaper at the hardware store. Sapphires and rubies are composed of the mineral corundum. But, it would be incorrect to say a piece of coal is rare just because its chemical makeup is the same as a diamond. Coal and diamonds are both forms of pure carbon. Once an item is identified as rare, one must understand the nature of that item in order to properly judge its value. Once a gemstone is set into jewelry it becomes an even more powerful symbol of value it recognizes the uniqueness of the wearer. We are attuned to appreciate objects that are uncommon and unusual, and to cherish the standouts of the bunch. It is their scarcity, as well as their beauty, that captivates us. If the streets were lined with gems, we would not consider them items of great value. If, however, you are interested in "the real thing," it is important to know the factors you should consider when shopping for natural sapphire jewelry. If appearance is your only priority, you might choose to stop reading here. “Costume jewelry” pieces and synthetic stones will not have the subtle variations and uniqueness of real gemstones, and while they may look nice, they are neither rare nor valuable. ![]() If appearance is your only concern, then you might consider an honest fake. Synthetics and stimulants simply did not exist. When the first jewelry pieces were crafted, there were no alternatives to an authentic gemstone. Whether they sparkle, glow, or shine, gemstones have been used in jewelry for centuries because they please the eye. Let us consider each element of the equation separately and you will see why untreated sapphires add up to a smart decision. These three attributes are clearly connected the interaction of the first two factors produces the third. There are three primary reasons to choose natural untreated sapphires: they are beautiful, rare, and valuable. Untreated Sapphires - Why Choose Natural Untreated Sapphires?
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